Yoga is a system of physical, mental and spiritual development that originated in India over 5000 years ago. It is currently practised by over 500,000 people in the UK. The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word meaning 'union'. In the west, it commonly describes the physical practice of exercises (postures or asanas) but this is really just the tip of the iceberg. For me, yoga is about finding the greatest degree of freedom and ease, both mentally and physically, at this point in time. It is the union of mind, body and spirit and the removal of obstacles to being our true selves. It is about how we unite with one another and the world around us. Yoga is who I am, and how I am in the world.

Everyone can practise yoga, regardless of age, ability or creed. People come to yoga for various reasons: to keep supple, lift their energy, increase strength, heal a 'bad back', for relief of specific conditions, to help concentration and aid relaxation, to find or increase spiritual awareness. Sometimes one thing brings us to yoga, but then the beauty of the rest of the practice unfolds.